Online Courses for the 2014 Summer Session

A study of the Old Testament covering biblical books, their historical contexts, genres and ancient Near Eastern cultural contexts necessary for interpretation. The basics of exegetical method particular to the genres of the Old Testament will be covered. Principles of biblical interpretation will also be covered especially from a Catholic perspective. Lectures and assignments including quizzes, exams and a final paper.

An introduction to the four Gospels in their social, historical and theological settings. Using a "socio-literary" approach, we will study the Gospels within a two-dimensional framework, both centred on what the early Christians called the "gospel" or "Kerygma." One dimension has to do with social history the origin and development of Christianity as a distinct social entity, from its foundations in the ministry of Jesus and the Easter experience, through its emergence as a Jewish renewal movement, and on to its development into a separate, largely Gentile, institutionalized religion. The second dimension has to do with literature the process by which the Gospels came to be written, their literary form and texture, and their character as narrative versions of the "gospel." Weekly online lectures, assigned analysis/reflection papers, discussion board postings.

Introduction to Old Testament literature and history (Genesis-Kings) with emphasis on application within the church. The course consists of online written lectures with class participation through discussion forums. Readings, written assignments and final paper.

Is it legitimate to use technology to communicate the gospel? Explores the function and use of the tools of technology in the varied ministry of the church. Asks critical questions about technology and its use. In the context of addressing issues such as virtual community, media arts and worship, internet-based ministry, Christian education and youth ministry, and spirituality online, the course seeks to equip students with skills in this new area of ministry. Discussion forums, online projects, reflections paper.

This introductory course surveys the history of atheism and secularization from the mid-eighteenth-century Western European Enlightenment to the present. We will not only read selections from some of the most important English, Scottish, German, and American atheists, agnostics, and rationalists of the period, but also examine and discuss how contemporary political and social thought contributed to the rise of secular thought and gradual decline in theological orthodoxy. The course will demonstrate how the writings of atheists and theological rationalists have always been predicated on significant intellectual and emotional tensions between orthodox Christianity and contemporary culture. Participation, research summary, book report, online final exam.

This course is an introduction to the history, theology and pastoral practice of Christian liturgy. Topics include: the role of ritual and symbol in human life, the historical development of Christian worship in both East and West, the relationship of liturgy to society and culture, liturgical theology, and critical approaches to liturgical practice.

From the subapostolic age to the "Triumph of Orthodoxy" in the East and the Carolingian revival and Treaty of Verdun in the West. Geographical expansion of the church; the relation of Christian faith to cultural settings and other religions; the development of doctrinal and ethical positions; forms of Christian life and worship; the rise of Islam.

Schedule:Online Course· Begins: 06/22 · Ends: 07/26Schedule Notes: Begins week of June 22 and ends by July 26; two sessions per week, five weeksInstructors:Brian A. Butcher